review: Al Joseph (free album during December)

Al Joseph

Out in the Open (especial edition)

This album is free throughout December.

This December of 2016 Al Joseph posted on his social media pages about this new edition of his 2013 debut album: "Out In The Open (Special Edition) is a re-cut of my debut solo record which was released in 2013. This cut features my good friends Dillon Baird on drums, Stefan Sandman on bass, Matt Weaver on violins, Santiago Vidal on keyboards, Even Basbug as well on keys and of course your truly on all guitars."

The melodic and shred guitarist Al Joseph and his friends have a pleasurable, smooth, melodic album that they want to bring to the attention of serious listeners into guitar and instrumental music. The music breathes really well and you will find that it's a different kind of feeling when you spend time listening to the sounds without vocals. Your mind won't be so cluttered with someone's voice. Some people like the phrase, "Shut up and play your guitar!" and that's exactly what this is.

Al Joseph's playing is characterized by the ability to make instrumental, shred, melodic guitar accessible by writing songs. The music finds the sweet spot between (1) a musician's desire to show off so that the world can take them seriously as someone skilled and professional-minded, and (2) the listener's hopes to hear good songs; songs that connect in some way. Thus, the album has shredding and wrist-hurting wizardry and magic; and there are lots of melodies, the kind in which the guitar sings. The tempos vary, but we can say that it's uptempo and midtempo; it's not fast all the time and the slower moments do not feel like the predominant pace of the album because there is a good sense of proportion and song sequence.

(review by MMB)

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OFFICIAL: Al Joseph was born in 1987 on Highland Park, IL and was raised in Scranton, PA. His musical journey started young, playing drums from 10 years old. However, his passion for the guitar soon took over and a year or so later he laid down his sticks and started his guitar-led journey! ​

After earning a prestigious spot on "Jam Track Central's" artist roster in 2013, Al has proven to be one of the worlds most exciting new virtuosos to hit the scene to date. Now a proud Alumni of Berklee College Of Music, Al presses on to an already promising career as guitar player, composer, songwriter, and producer. Expect to see more exciting things over the coming years.

You can expect to hear the lyrical texture of legendary artists such as Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, Andy Timmons, and Greg Howe. As far as songwriting goes Al has a never- ending list of influences in his arsenal. From bands like Creed, Rage Against The Machine, P.O.D, to Pillar, Pantera, Sevendust, and many more. If you can dig on any of the above, then get ready to add another artist to your list. ​

"Out In The Open” is Al's debut solo instrumental record which was re- released through JTC Records in 2015. It's a story of emotion, new beginnings, unknowns, and all the new challenges Al has faced throughout his life. Let's not forget about an hour’s worth of world class shredding as well. If you enjoy the workings of guitar legends Joe Satriani and Andy Timmons, look no further. This record has it all wrapped up in a nice basket for you with some jazz-fusion elements as well. “Out In the Open” is a wild ride for sure!

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